A guide for new bikers

Whether you’re looking for pure performance or it’s just a case of convenience, there’s a motorbike to suit your every need. But if you’re new to the road, or a biking beginner, there’s a couple of things to consider before you set off. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to getting new bikers on the go…

Some simple steps to get started

You might come from a family of bikers, taking part in track days or you might just be looking for a cost-effective commute, either way there’s a few things you’ll need to tackle before you take to the rider’s seat. The type of bike you want to ride will affect the licence you’ll require and the insurance price you’re offered so it’s worth taking some time to consider your options. Our helpful guide below shows you the 4 simple steps to getting on the road.

#1 Getting your licence

The most important step in getting on the road is making sure you’ve got the right licence. There are two types of licence and several types of licence categories so it’s worth taking some time to check which you’ll need to ride the bike you want. You’ll also have to make sure you meet the minimum age limit for some licences. The most basic licence (AM) allows you to ride Mopeds (with speed range of 25km/h to 45 km/h), Small 3-wheelers (up to 50cc) and Light quadricycles (with a top speed of 45 km/h). You’ll need to complete your CBT, theory test and practical test to acquire this licence.

#2 Choosing your first bike

Choosing your first bike can be an exciting time. If you’re getting on the road for the first time, you might be feeling a pretty big sense of achievement as independence looms large. But with so many bikes on the market it can sometimes be a bit of a daunting task trying to find one that’s right for you. Are you looking for a little run-around or something pumped up for performance? Are you looking for something that will store your shopping or something more streamlined?

What's popular?

The most popular motorbike, as quoted for on our site, is the Honda CBR 125 R. Driven in its popularity by the fact it’s small, reliable and cost-efficient, this particular model would be a good bet for a new biker- particularly those that are looking to cut their commute or do any inner-city riding. The average price to insure is £1,157.95 which is quite pricey for a new biker.

What’s cheap?

If you’re looking to get a little more for your money, you could start out with the some of the smaller motorbike models on the market. Our research shows that the cheapest motorbike to insure is the Triumph Tiger Cub. An older model with plenty of character, this bike is good for the more social biker.

#3 Choose your insurance

Just like car insurance, there are 3 different types of insurance for motorcycles that all offer different levels cover. Don’t assume third party is the cheapest option either, make sure you compare your options and find the cover that’s right for you.

Third party only

Third party only does what it says on the tin- it covers third party only. This means that if you cause an accident, any other vehicle or passenger can claim against your insurance but you and your bike can’t.

Third party fire and theft

Much like third party only, this level of cover protects other parties but won’t cover you. It will, however, cover your bike if it gets stolen or is damaged through fire.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive cover will cover you, your bike, your passengers and any third parties that are involved in an accident. This level of cover will offer you more protection than the other options and may not necessarily be any more expensive.

#4 Get kitted up

Once you’ve got the bike sorted, the final step is to make sure that you’re set for success. While some of you may think that motorcycle clothing is more of a fashion statement than a must-have, having the right gear will help keep you safe, warm and dry so it’s definitely worth investing in some good kit. And whilst a decent helmet and some good leathers will start the ball rolling, gloves and boots play an important part in keeping you safe too…

Helmets

A good helmet is the first step to protecting yourself on your bike. Statistics show that helmets are 37% effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and about 67% effective in preventing brain injuries. So take care and invest in the right head wear.

Leathers

Whilst many think leather motorcycle gear is a style choice, the truth is there are actually several reasons why most specialist biker jackets and trousers are made out of leather. Most leathers will include added support (often around the neck and chest), will be waterproof to let you ride in any weather, and may even give some protection in the case of an accident.

Gloves

Also important in terms of safety and comfort is making sure you’ve got riding gloves. Good gloves could give you a little more protection if you’re ever in an accident and will dramatically increase the comfort of your ride- whether it’s helping you regulate body temperature or providing some much-need wrist support.

Boots

Whilst boots are a staple for those serious bikers who take their safety seriously, those that are just riding round the city might be tempted to forgo this item. But good boots will provide greater support for the ankle, better traction on the soles and offer better protection for your feet if you ever come off your bike.

A word of warning

It’s been fairly widely publicised that motorbikes come with their own set of dangers. Whilst road accidents occur regularly and affect all different road users, motorcyclists are a particularly vulnerable group. According to the most recent government data, motorcyclists accounted for 19% of all road fatalities. In 2014, there were 339 motorcycle fatalities and 5,289 were seriously injured in accidents. That’s in spite of the fact that motorcycles only accounted for 3.4% of all new licensed vehicles in the last quarter of 2015- so they’re clearly not the most popular mode of transport. If you’re planning on getting out on the road, don’t let these statistics put you off. But just make sure that you’re driving safely and that you’re taking all the right precautions before you set off.

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